Ingrown toenail

Treatment:

Antibiotics, either topical (applied to a localized area of the skin) or oral, may be prescribed if infection is present. A foot specialist or another health care provider can trim the toenail along the ingrown edge. Soaking the foot in warm salt water several times a day will help relieve the pain.

Expectations (prognosis):

Treatment is effective in controlling infection and relieving pain. The condition is likely to recur if preventive measures are not taken.

Complications:

• if untreated, infection may develop

Calling your health care provider:

If you are able to do so, trim the toenail and apply over-the-counter topical antibiotics. Call for an appointment with the health care provider if you are unable to trim an ingrown toenail or if there is severe foot pain, redness, or swelling.